subject: Entertain Clients With Ease [print this page] One of the most dreaded and daunting business tasks is having to entertain clients from out of town. Its impossible to know what a group of strangers is going to like to do and, as such, its all too easy to pick an activity that is inappropriate or simply not enjoyed. While you will always be expected to have some ideas and general plans, its a wise choice to let the clients themselves do most of the decision making. Be ready to present them with different options but also to listen to their ideas about what they would like to do or are interested in seeing.
If your clients are going to be given company vehicles or rental cars to get around, make sure that each one is equipped with a GPS, and not just any GPS either. Be sure to choose one that allows for easy searching and can point visitors in the direction of local hotspots, like restaurants, bars, night clubs, movie theatres, art galleries, museums, and other venues for entertainment. This will make it so that clients can pick and choose what they would like to do rather than having to rely solely on you for their fun and relaxation. Remember that you too can also use a GPS to come up with unique ideas in a pinch.
Its also important to keep in mind that entertaining clients isnt just about wining and dining them. Its about putting your companys best foot forward and connecting it with a positive memory in your clients minds. That is your main goal, but you also have to focus on building real connections and friendships with your clients. If you can strike up a friendly repertoire, chances are that youll be the first choice when it comes time to make an important decision about who to hire for an upcoming project.
While youll certainly want to get your clients out and about and enjoying all that your city has to offer, dont underestimate the value of small, personal affairs either. Hosting a cozy, intimate dinner party at your home or just sitting down for a few drinks and conversation is a great way to forge connections in a non-threatening way. Smaller events such as these are also a good way to cut back on expenses while still impressing your clients and leaving them eager to work with you again in the future.
Be sure that you dont invest all of your time and energy into the entertaining part. As mentioned earlier, the clients can take care of some of their fun on their own. Plus, you need to focus on the important business aspect of the meeting, such as presentations or pitches. Remember, though, that you can infuse fun into these as well. Make videos, presentations, meetings, or other events memorable and fun by infusing humor and lightheartedness into the situation. Also, encourage communication, question asking, and friendly banter. If you make your clients feel warm and appreciated, chances are theyll reciprocate.
